How to Get Pipe Dope Out of Clothes?

It happens to the best of us. We’re working on a plumbing project, and we get a little bit of pipe dope on our clothes. Or, we’re doing some work around the house and we accidentally get some grease or oil on our clothing.

Now, we’re stuck with a tough stain that just won’t come out in the wash. Before you start to panic, take a deep breath and relax. There are some things you can do to remove pipe dope from clothes. With a little patience and some elbow grease, you can get your clothes looking like new again.

In this article, we’ll show you how to get pipe dope out of clothes. We’ll also give you some tips on how to prevent pipe dope stains in the future.

What is Pipe Dope?

Pipe dope is a substance that is used to seal pipe threads. It is made up of a variety of different chemicals, including oils, greases, and resins. Pipe dope is available in both liquid and paste form.

Pipe dope is applied to the threads of a pipe before it is screwed into place. The pipe dope fills in any gaps between the threads and creates a tight seal. This seal prevents leaks and ensures that the connection is secure.

Pipe dope is also known as pipe joint compound, thread sealant, and thread seal tape.

When to Use Pipe dope, Teflon Tape, Neither or Both for Threaded Connection

How to Remove Pipe Dope from Clothes?

There are a few different methods you can use to remove pipe dope from clothes. The best method will depend on the type of fabric your clothes are made from.

Cotton and Polyester

If your clothes are made from cotton or polyester, you can remove pipe dope stains using rubbing alcohol.

Start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove any excess pipe dope. Next, soak a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and dab the stain. Continue dabbing the stain until it is gone.

Once the stain is gone, rinse the area with cold water. Then, wash the clothing item as you normally would.

Nylon and Acrylic

If your clothes are made from nylon or acrylic, you can remove pipe dope stains using hairspray.

Start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove any excess pipe dope. Next, spray the stain with hairspray. Let the hairspray sit on the stain for a few minutes.

After a few minutes have passed, blot the stain with a clean cloth. Continue blotting the stain until it is gone. Once the stain is gone, rinse the area with cold water.

Then, wash the clothing item as you normally would.

Wool

If your clothes are made from wool, you can remove pipe dope stains using vinegar.

Start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove any excess pipe dope. Next, mix one part vinegar with two parts water. Soak a clean cloth in the vinegar solution and blot the stain.

Continue blotting the stain until it is gone. Once the stain is gone, rinse the area with cold water. Then, wash the clothing item as you normally would.

Silk

If your clothes are made from silk, you can remove pipe dope stains using dish soap.

Start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove any excess pipe dope. Next, mix one part dish soap with two parts water. Soak a clean cloth in the soap solution and blot the stain.

Continue blotting the stain until it is gone. Once the stain is gone, rinse the area with cold water. Then, wash the clothing item as you normally would.

Leather

If your clothes are made from leather, you can remove pipe dope stains using saddle soap.

Start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove any excess pipe dope. Next, rub a small amount of saddle soap into the stain. Continue rubbing the saddle soap into the stain until it is gone.

Once the stain is gone, rinse the area with cold water. Then, wipe the area dry with a clean cloth.

Suede

If your clothes are made from suede, you can remove pipe dope stains using rubbing alcohol.

Start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to remove any excess pipe dope. Next, soak a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and dab the stain. Continue dabbing the stain until it is gone.

Once the stain is gone, rinse the area with cold water. Then, let the area air dry.

How to Avoid Getting Pipe Dope on Your Clothes?

Now that you know how to remove pipe dope from clothing, let’s talk about how to avoid getting it on your clothes in the first place.

There are a few simple steps you can take to avoid getting pipe dope on your clothes.

Wear Protective Clothing

One of the best ways to avoid getting pipe dope on your clothes is to wear protective clothing.

Wearing old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty is a good idea. You can also wear a pair of overalls or a pair of coveralls.

Use a Drop Cloth

Another good way to avoid getting pipe dope on your clothes is to use a drop cloth. A drop cloth is a piece of fabric that you can lay on the ground to protect your clothes.

Drop clothes are available at most hardware stores. Be sure to get one that’s large enough to cover the area you’ll be working in.

Clean Up Any Spills

If you do happen to get pipe dope on your clothes, it’s important to clean up any spills immediately.

If you don’t have a drop cloth, you can use an old towel or a piece of cardboard to absorb the spill. Once you’ve absorbed the spill, be sure to wash your clothes immediately.

Conclusion

Pipe dope can be a pain to get out of clothes, but it’s not impossible. With a little effort, you can remove pipe dope from most fabrics.

If you’re working with pipe dope, be sure to wear protective clothing and use a drop cloth. And, if you do happen to get pipe dope on your clothes, clean it up immediately.


Meghan

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